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Peugeot RC Z Coming to Frankfurt

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July 31, 2007

French
manufacturer Peugeot will have two wildly different versions of the 308 on its
Frankfurt Motor Show stand. The first will be the standard compact hatchback –
replacing the popular 307 – but the second will be something else entirely. And
this is the first official picture. Called the 308 RC Z, it’s a glimpse at what
a 2+2 coupe built off the same platform could look like.

The front end styling is taken directly from the production car but has been
given a sharper lower section, incorporating the single air intake, chrome
front grille, and integral front fog lamps. The curved shape of the roof panel and
rear window manages airflow over the rear of the vehicle, creating sufficient rear down
force to eliminate the need for a rear spoiler.

The
two centrally mounted rear exhaust pipes are integrated into the wraparound
rear bumper lower panel. To achieve this, the rear exhaust silencer has been
located in a transverse position where it also serves as an aerodynamic diffuser,
but still allows sufficient space for the storage of a spare wheel in the trunk
floor.

Inside,
the fascia panel has been taken directly from the 308 hatchback. Trimmed in
leather, the use of chrome, aluminum, and black lacquer detailing creates a smart
and sporty look.

At the
rear there are two occasional folding leather seats, with enough space for a set
of golf clubs when they’re not in use. Peugeot designers claim you can also get
an adult mountain bike in the back.

The 308 RC
Z is powered by a 1.6-liter, 218-hp turbocharged gasoline engine, mated to a
six-speed gearbox. Maximum torque output of 207 lb-ft can be temporarily
increased to 221 lb-ft with an overboost function. The car will hit 60 mph in
seven seconds.